Apple sends out iOS 4.2

iOS 4.2 is now available to download for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch devices, according to a statement released by Apple on Monday.

Apple put a teaser page up on its website detailing some of the upcoming features of the mobile platform update, which includes bringing multitasking to the iPad for the first time since its launch in May 2010.

Also among the new headline features is AirPlay, which lets users stream music, videos or photos to the Apple TV, Folders — which allows grouping of similar apps — and AirPrint which allows one-click printing with compatible web enabled printers from HP.

As part of the update Apple has also removed the 'Find my iPhone' service — which gives users that lose their handsets a chance of tracking it down, or at worst remotely wiping the data — from the chargeable MobileMe subscription and is instead offering it for free to people that download the app from the Apple App Store.

The "Find My..." service is currently only being offered for free for owners of an iPhone 4, iPad, or fourth-generation iPod Touch.

Apple also said that iOS 4.2.1 brings the ability to rent TV episodes to the iPad. Rented items will stay available for viewing for 30 days and once you've started watching the programme it will remain available for 48 hours.

Check out the ZDNet UK iOS 4.2 photo overview for more details.

Meanwhile, Orange on Monday announced that it will soon be offering "more affordable prices" for users that purchase the Wi-Fi and 3G equipped models with an inclusive data plan.